Choose the Right SQL
Microsoft offers multiple SQL database options — from on-premise SQL Server to fully managed Azure SQL. Choose based on control needs, scalability, and budget.
Options Compared
- SQL Server: Full control, on-premise or VM, all features
- Azure SQL Database: Fully managed PaaS, serverless option, auto-scaling
- Azure SQL Managed Instance: Near 100% SQL Server compatibility in the cloud
- SQL on Azure VM: Lift-and-shift with IaaS flexibility
- Azure SQL Edge: IoT and edge computing scenarios
Migration Path
Use Azure Database Migration Service for assessment and migration. Start with Azure SQL Managed Instance for maximum compatibility, then optimize to Azure SQL Database.
